Healthcare Abroad: What Every Expat Needs to Know

The Healthcare Gap

One of the biggest anxieties about moving abroad is healthcare. Will you be covered? Can you see a specialist? What happens in an emergency? Let's break it down.

Public Healthcare by Region

Europe (EU/EEA)

If you're an EU citizen moving within the EU, you're covered via the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its replacement, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Non-EU residents need to qualify through local social security systems.

Top-rated systems: France (1st WHO ranking), Italy, Spain, Portugal all offer universal coverage to registered residents.

Southeast Asia

Most countries offer affordable public healthcare, but quality varies significantly. Thailand has excellent private hospitals at very reasonable costs. Malaysia offers world-class healthcare at 50-70% less than Western prices.

Middle East

UAE mandates health insurance for residents — employers usually provide it. Quality is excellent but expensive without coverage.

Private Health Insurance Options

Provider	Coverage	Monthly Cost	Best For
SafetyWing	Global (excl. US)	€45-75	Nomads, basic coverage
World Nomads	Travel + medical	€60-120	Short-term travelers
Cigna Global	Comprehensive	€200-500	Families, full coverage
Allianz Care	EU-focused	€150-350	European relocations
BUPA Global	Worldwide	€300-600	Premium coverage

Key Considerations

Pre-existing conditions — Most international policies exclude them for 12-24 months

Dental and vision — Usually separate or add-on coverage

Repatriation coverage — Essential: covers medical evacuation to your home country

Prescription medications — Check availability and legal status in your destination

Mental health — Increasingly covered but verify with your provider

Emergency Procedures

Save local emergency numbers — 112 (EU), 911 (US), varies elsewhere

Keep insurance card accessible — physical and digital copies

Know the nearest hospital — research before you need it

Language barrier — many hospitals in tourist areas have English-speaking staff

ReloMap Healthcare Data

Every destination on ReloMap includes healthcare quality scores, private insurance costs, and hospital ratings. Use this data to compare healthcare quality alongside cost of living.

Compare Healthcare by Destination →